Just a year ago, T-Mobile's G1 "Google phone" was the only phone on the market to run on the Android operating system. But in the past year, a handful of other smart phones have come on the scene -- and analysts expect more than 50 new phones with Google's Android operating system to ship next year.

If you're a newcomer to the Android universe or are thinking about taking the leap, here's a sampling of the Android Marketplace's finest offerings.

ShopSavvy

An oldie-but-goodie, ShopSavvy is a necessary application for every budget-conscious shopper.

Among the most successful early Android applications, ShopSavvy turns your phone into a pocket barcode scanner using the phone's built-in camera.

Once you've scanned the product's barcode into your phone, it gives you information about that product, as well as where you buy it online or at other stores, and at what prices.

Originally launched last October as GoKart, ShopSavvy is available for free in the Android Marketplace.

Phone Doubles as Concierge, Remote Control and More

Sherpa

If you've ever wanted your own personal concierge, take a look at Sherpa.

This Android app, which uses a phone's GPS to track your location, monitors and learns your favorite places and activities. As it aggregates information about your preferences, it starts to make recommendations and provide reminders about places to visit and things to do.

Sherpa constantly keeps track of where you are and is ready with a carousel of points of interest in your area. It is a free download in the Android Marketplace.

Google Goggles

One of the newest apps to hit the Android Marketplace, Google Goggles lets users search by image.

Instead of typing in a word or place, users can simply take a picture of a book, landmark, DVD, logo or anything else and Google's search engine will do its thing.

For example, if you use the phone's camera to pan around your surroundings, the application will tag businesses in your area and give you the option to learn more about them.

If you take a picture of a book, the app will generate links to compare prices and preview the text.

Gmote

Have you ever wanted to control the music on your computer from across the room? If so, check out Gmote.

The relatively new app turns your Android-powered cell phone into a remote control so that you can run movies and music from a distance.

Not only does it let you select play, pause and rewind and adjust the volume, it also lets you choose what to play.

Cardio Trainer

For the Droid user looking to stay fit and get some fresh air, Cardio Trainer is as essential as running shoes. The free app records your outdoor workouts, including running, walking, skiing, horseback riding, kayaking and skating. It uses a built-in pedometer and GPS technology.

It can also keep track of indoor activities on a treadmill, stationary bike, ski machine or track. Cardio Trainer automatically pauses and resumes as you stop and start moving.

Want to run four miles, burn 400 calories, or race against your record time? Cardio Trainer will help you do all three.

(Note: you must pay a one-time $2.99 fee for Weight Loss Trainer and Race Against Yourself after free trials for those services expire.)

Location, Location, Location: Apps Rely on GPS Technology

Locale

Do you get embarrassed when your phone's ringer goes off during class or while you're in a meeting?